Decade-Long Journey to Success: Linking TMDL Development with Implementation for Muddy Creek Watershed in Virginia

Muddy Creek Watershed
Rockingham County, Virginia

The TMDL implementation in the Muddy Creek watershed demonstrates many benefits of adaptive management concept and follow-up monitoring. The parallel TMDL research studies help address key technical issues (e.g. uncertainty analysis and critical condition) and bridge TMDL implementation with TMDL development efforts. These benefits from long-term TMDL implementation in the Muddy Creek watershed include:
- It allows for water quality improvements to be recorded as they are being achieved, as stream monitoring continues to occur;
- It helps to ensure the most cost effective practices are implemented initially and allows for the evaluation of the adequacy of the TMDL in achieving the water quality standard;
- It provides a measure of quality control, given the uncertainties which exist in any water quality model used during TMDL development;
- It is designed to address multiple water quality problems within a watershed whenever possible to gain the best efficiency;
- It provides a mechanism for developing public support.
With successful completion of implementation from TMDL development effort, Muddy
Creek watershed community has been well on the way to restoring impaired waterbodies
and enhancing the value of this important natural resource. Source: WEFTEC 2009 Proceedings

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Posted: August 27th, 2010 | Filed under: Stormwater, Water Treatment | Tags: Cost Savings, Environmental Impact, Quality Control | No Comments »

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